http://www.rebeccashouse.org/treatment-main | Those currently undergoing eating disorder treatment may struggle during the holiday season. Due to stress and anxiety surrounding food, family, and busy schedules, the holidays are some of the most triggering times of the year.

2. The holiday season
is known for stress,
whether it is due to
facing busy
shopping malls, or
finding time to visit
relatives. Feelings
of anxiety are
common this time
of year, especially
for disordered
eaters who fear the
food-focused
winter months. This
presentation is
designed to help
eating disorder
sufferers unwind
and put their health
first in the coming
months.

3. • In the United States, an
estimated 10 million females
and 1 million males suffer
from potentially life-
threatening eating disorders.1
• Disordered behaviors can
include an unhealthy
relationship with food, a
disconnection with one's
body image, and unhealthy
weight-regulation practices.
• These symptoms may be
enhanced during the
indulgent winter months,
especially since each holiday
season brings an increase in
advertisements promoting
weight loss and “a new body”
just in time for the New Year.
• As a direct result, each
calendar year, Americans
spend over $40 billion on diet
plans and diet-related
products.2

4. During food-fixated holiday events, it can be difficult to handle feelings of shame and guilt that
trigger disordered eating. Work with an eating disorder treatment center ahead of time to intercept
negative emotions before they appear. You can also use tactics such as making a list of thoughts or
situations that have been triggering the past. Next to each item on the list, write pro-recovery
responses to help center your mind. You can also bring the list to important events, in case
debilitating emotions crop up unexpectedly.

5. Remember that
celebrating with
loved ones is the true
purpose of the
holiday season. Try
to forget about the
element of food
entirely, and focus on
reconnecting with
family and friends.
Always think
positively, and
replace any feelings
of dread with eager
anticipation for
spending time with
the ones you love.

6. Eating disorders are isolating. Individuals who suffer from unhealthy eating habits may
experience social withdrawal as a defense mechanism to continue addictive and destructive
behaviors. Recognize this fact ahead of time, and confide in someone you love. They can act
as your personal cheerleader if times are tough, and will help you to handle your holiday
commitments in stride.

7. Don’t Fill Your CalendarThe holidays are always hectic, so avoid further stress by keeping your schedule
manageable. Overbooking yourself can result in a lack of control, which may be triggering
to some. Remember that you’re not expected to attend every single holiday party, and go
only to the events that you’re most excited about.

8. Relax and enjoy seasonal delights:
• Remember that all food can be enjoyed in moderation; there are no “good” or “bad” foods.
• Give yourself permission to sample traditional or specialty dishes without the guilt.
• Savor the texture, smell, and taste of each bite, remembering the love that went into preparing
every meal.
• Avoid the “last supper” mentality: you can always have more! Another idea is to take home a
doggy bag to enjoy your favorite foods later.

9. The most
important thing to
remember this
holiday season?
You’re only
human! Try not to
punish yourself for
accidental
overeating, and
stay calm in the
face of negative
emotions. Take
time to breathe,
and remember that
tomorrow is a new
day.

10. Rebecca’s House is an eating disorder
treatment center in Orange County that
is focused on healing the mind and body.
Our goal is to lead eating disorder
recovery that will last a lifetime, avoiding
chance of relapse and need for further
treatment. Get help now by visit
www.rebeccashouse.org.

11. 1. http://www.umassmed.edu/contentassets/f2f8025d2bf24b1fb3f531b076d167
fb/neda-fact-sheet.pdf
2. http://health.usnews.com/health-conditions/mental-health/eating-
disorders/overview